How to Diagnose ADHD
Providers conduct clinical interviews and behavior ratings scales, checklists for symptoms filled out by the patient, and others in their life, as well as psychiatric histories and medical information to diagnose ADHD. Psychotherapy may also be used to manage symptoms.
You must have six symptoms that started before 12 years old and interfered with your daily activities in two different places (home and school or at work and social environments) to be diagnosed with ADHD. It is important to get the right diagnosis before deciding on the best treatment plan.
The history of symptoms
When a patient decides that they want to see an ADHD specialist, the doctor will review their symptoms and determine if they meet the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. These are listed in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To be considered a diagnosis, the symptoms must have been present for at least six months. The patient must have at least five ADHD symptoms that are persistent and the symptoms are affecting their functioning in at minimum two different environments such as school and at work. Additionally, the individual's ADHD symptoms cannot be explained by a different mental health condition.
The first step is for the doctor to speak with the patient about their symptoms and how they affect their daily life. They will also ask the person about their family history, and also their medical and mental health histories.
ADHD can cause people to struggle with working through tasks or managing their time. They may forget work or personal appointments. They have a hard time staying focused in lectures or discussions and are easily distracted by calls from their phones or television shows. They might be agitated, fidgety or talking too much, interrupting others or struggling to wait their turn in activities or games. Adults with ADHD are more likely to be having difficulty making decisions and following through on them, and also having difficulty keeping their hands off of things they should not be doing.
If the symptoms of ADHD aren't addressed they could result in serious consequences, such as traffic violations or accidents. They can also cause problems in relationships and can be difficult to live around. A diagnosis can help a person take control of their lives and manage their symptoms through medication, lifestyle changes or therapy.
The stigma that surrounds ADHD can prevent people from seeking help or an assessment. People who suffer from ADHD are often accused of being lazy or failing to take the initiative. They are also at risk of being ostracized in the workplace due to a shortage of psychiatrists for children and adolescents and face obstacles in accessing psychiatric treatment, including stigma and fear about the risks and adverse effects.
Physical Examination
It is essential to find a mental health professional or physician who has been trained in diagnosing ADHD. The person you choose could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a family physician. A thorough examination should include a consultation with a clinician as well as the use of diagnostic tests and the completion of questionnaires. The examiner should also ask questions regarding the person's medical history, as well as their development and behavior going back to the time of childhood. The examiner can often benefit from speaking to people who are familiar with the patient, like siblings, spouses or parents for adults; teachers, coaches, religious leaders, and Scout leaders in the case of children, in order to obtain information about their observations.
A physical exam is required to rule out any health conditions that could cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. These include thyroid disease or hearing, vision and eye issues or sleep disorders. Other tests, like an X-ray, or other laboratory tests, might also be required.
The most valuable information is what the patient has to tell the doctor about their own symptoms and how they have affected the person's life. It is crucial for the doctor to listen carefully to what the patient is able to share. In rushing through an ADHD assessment can result in a wrong diagnosis and leaving out crucial information.
Experts agree that ADHD is only diagnosed in adults if the symptoms were present during childhood. The average person does not "outgrow" ADHD, but an increase in responsibility or a change in life could cause it in adults. For example someone could get a job which requires regular meetings and he or she has trouble meeting those expectations.
It's a good idea for a child to see an expert when issues first arise. This increases the chances that the issue can be diagnosed and treated quickly, and also reduces the chance of a misdiagnosis that could have long-lasting consequences. Parents should speak with their school counselor or principal for referrals to health care experts who are certified to conduct ADHD evaluations. Adults can ask their friends and family for recommendations, or contact a local group to get names of professionals who are qualified. You can also ask his or primary care provider or a psychiatric institution for an alphabetical list of specialists.
Psychological Tests
Psychological testing is an essential part of the process to diagnose ADHD. It can help confirm the diagnosis and provide a more complete evaluation of symptoms and their effects on a person's daily life. Testing can also detect other mental health conditions that could co-occur with ADHD, like anxiety or depression. It can also provide information on the need for interventions and accommodations.
There are many psychological tests that can help diagnose ADHD in children. These include rating scales, direct observation of behavior, as well as neuropsychological assessments. Interviews are also conducted with parents and teachers to get a complete picture of the child's experience.
Diagnosing ADHD for adults is more difficult. The DSM-V is designed to identify children. For adults, the best method to get an accurate diagnosis is to schedule a clinical interview with an expert who is familiar with ADHD and takes the time to review the patient's medical background. Some healthcare professionals employ computers to assess impulsivity and attention. Brain scans are also sometimes used.
It could take a range of hours to complete an extensive assessment, but you should expect to spend one day in a hospital or clinic to undergo a neuropsychological assessment. Iam Psychiatry is a relatively small investment for clear answers and a plan of action that will enhance your quality of life. It is not unusual for patients to be emotional when they hear their results, particularly when they have suffered from undiagnosed ADHD for a long time or for a long time.
Online ADHD self-assessments claim to provide a definitive, validated scientific diagnosis of your symptoms. Most mental health experts don't recommend these assessments because they do not consider the complexity of psychiatric conditions and how they affect the person's daily activities. A healthcare professional who is qualified and follows the DSM guidelines will only be able to provide an official ADHD diagnosis. You can find a qualified healthcare provider through your family doctor, or ask for referrals from friends and colleagues who have had experience with ADHD.
Family History
Currently, under DSM-5 guidelines, a child must demonstrate symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity in two or more settings, including home and school, before a diagnosis can be made. Adults can be diagnosed with ADHD if they meet the criteria in a single setting.
The health care professional conducting the evaluation will interview the patient. She will ask questions regarding the symptoms and their effects on daily living. She will inquire about the person’s medical history as well as their family background. She will likely use a checklist or standardized ratings scale to help determine whether the symptoms are ADHD. She will also request information from many sources, including teachers, coaches religious and scout leaders and family members who spend a lot of time with the person being assessed.
A complete psychiatric history should include the patient's account of symptoms, the completion of questionnaires and rating scales by the family and him and a review on the patient's education, upbringing and surroundings. A medical professional or psychiatrist may also conduct tests to determine if the patient's symptoms are related to depression or an anxiety disorder.
The DSM-5 symptom manual is targeted specifically for children, which makes it difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. A diagnosis is usually made only after a thorough clinical interview, conducted by a health care specialist who is trained in ADHD. She will ask both the patient as well as anyone who is familiar with him, such as his spouse or close family members whether they have ADHD-related issues. She will also ask about the patient's history with other disorders that can hinder focus, including depression, addiction to drugs or alcoholism.
Ask your primary care physician for the referral to a health care provider who is qualified in ADHD evaluations. You can also call an organization that offers local support for people suffering from ADHD, or a mental illness group for recommendations. Many insurance plans also list professionals by specialty and you can check with your insurance provider to determine if there are any ADHD specialists in your region.